At a Glance

Absorb the complex identity of China on a grand journey that brings you face-to-face with the country’s glorious treasures and modern identity. Feel the energy of Beijing and Shanghai, experience life along the Yangtze River and discover the fascinating land of Tibet on the “Roof of the World.”

Activity Level

Keep the Pace

Walking up to three hours daily over varied terrain. Some stairs without railings. Elevations up to 12,000 feet.

Small Group

Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 10 to 24 participants.

Best of all, you'll ...

Marvel at the massive Buddhist cliff carvings of the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Voyage down the Yangtze River, sailing through its legendary gorges, to the Three Gorges Dam to examine firsthand this extraordinary feat of engineering.

Featured Expert

All Experts

Chinese Religions, Philosophy, and Character; Hongying Yang

Professor Yang Hongying is an expert in the study of foreign language and linguistics at Xi'an International Studies University, where she leads courses in Chinese culture and international studies. She has received numerous teaching awards, and also has received advanced degrees in cultural heritage studies from the Institute of European Studies in Macau, and in education from the University of New South Wales in Australia. Yang has published numerous papers on museum text translations and international culture studies, and has given lectures on Chinese culture and heritage in China, Macau, and Singapore. She has worked with and taught Road Scholar groups for more than 10 years.

Baima Wangdui

Chinese Religions, Philosophy, and Character; Hongying Yang

Suolang Wangmu

Suggested Reading List

View 1 books

China Reading and Film List

by Availability

An annotated reading and film list is an attachment near the end of the First Information Packet sent to participants three months before departure. To receive it earlier in a separate email, send your email request to Chinese American Educational Exchange: toc@ix.netcom.com. Be sure to include the program number in which you are enrolled and the departure date.

Afternoon: After hotel arrival and check in, take some time to freshen up and relax before our Orientation session. Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone with a warm welcome and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule and any changes, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer any questions you may have. CAEE Group Leaders are full-time trained professionals and permanent staff members with certification from the Chinese government. All are university graduates, fluent in English, well-educated in safety and protocol and are supported by established local offices nation-wide. Most lunches and dinners will be “family style” with various dishes placed on a “Lazy Susan” turntable in the center of the table where everyone helps themselves. Chopsticks and forks will be available as well as Chinese spoons used for serving and for soup at the end of a meal. Tea and water are served with all meals; other beverages available for purchase. Some mornings as indicated on your itinerary, join the Group Leader for a tai ji session before breakfast to start the day off calm and refreshed. Free time is reserved for your personal independent exploration. Please note that program activities, schedules, and personnel may need to change due to local circumstances. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Evening: Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.

DAY

3

Forbidden City, Tian’anmen Square, Peking Duck Dinner

Beijing

B,L,D

Qianmen Jianguo Hotel

Activity note: Driving up to 1.5 hours throughout the day. Walking approximately 2 miles in and around the Forbidden City on flat, paved terrain with many chairs and benches to rest; up to 80 steps with railings. Walking up to 1/2 mile from the coach to Tian’anmen Square.

Morning: We will explore parts of the 250-acre Forbidden City imperial compound. It was called the Forbidden City because it was “forbidden” to enter without the Emperor’s permission. The world's largest palace complex, it is surrounded by a moat 170 feet (52 meters) wide, a wall more than 32 feet (10 meters) high, and contains 8,700 rooms! Construction began in 1407, and, thanks to the labor of a million workers including 100,000 artisans, it was completed in 1420. The Forbidden City was not only the personal residence of emperors and their royal families, but China’s political center for more than five centuries.

Lunch: At a local restaurant, enjoy a family style meal.

Afternoon: Walk through Tian'anmen Square, considered the heart of Beijing. Meaning "Gate of Heavenly Peace," the square, set in the heart of Beijing, serves as the location of formal celebrations and ceremonies. More commonly, this huge piazza is where families come to stroll and chat and where kites and balloons abound. Here are located the Chairman Mao Zedong Memorial Hall, the China National Museum, Great Hall of the People, Monument to the People's Heroes, and the Tiananmen Tower. The square was the site in 1989 of pro-democracy protests seen around the world. The remainder of the afternoon is free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Dinner: At a local restaurant, we’ll have our official welcome dinner and savor Beijing’s famous culinary delight, Beijing Roast Duck, a.k.a. Peking Duck. The ducks are specially raised and the elaborate preparation involves a series of steps to produce the crispy skin and savory meat with traditional accompaniments such as scallion and sweet bean sauce, all rolled inside a thin pancake.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

4

Old Beijing Pedicab, Family Lunch, Summer Palace

Beijing

B,L,D

Qianmen Jianguo Hotel

Activity note: Led by our Group Leader, tai ji sessions last approximately 30 minutes. No special clothes or shoes are required. Walking up to 1/2 in Hutong area, and 1 mile in the Summer Palace on flat, paved terrain.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: Rise early before breakfast and join the group for a pre-breakfast tai ji class led by our Group Leader. After breakfast, we set out via motorcoach to explore the hutongs – small residential alleys and courtyards – near Beihai Park. Step onto a pedicab to ride around the district that houses many historic residences including the former home of Song Qing Ling, political activist and wife of Dr. Sun Yat Sen. The pedicabs allow us to ride deep into the smaller alleyways and immerse ourselves in the daily life of local people.

Lunch: In an “Old Beijing” hutong, we’ll gather for a family-hosted lunch including jaozi (Chinese style dumplings). Hutongs are old residential neighborhoods with courtyard homes situated in small lanes and alleys that are rapidly disappearing due to urban development.

Afternoon: Our day continues with a field trip to the Summer Palace, where lily ponds and arched bridges border its serene lake, and painted pavilions depict stories that reflect the rich history of Chinese life and art. After, we will return to the hotel.

Dinner: At a local restaurant known for their steamed dumplings; dine on their renowned dumplings, stir fried dishes, and rice.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

5

The Wild Great Wall

Beijing

B,L

Qianmen Jianguo Hotel

Activity note: The motorcoach trip to Jin Shan Ling Great Wall is about 98 miles, approximately 2.5 hours. Walking up to about 1.5 miles. We will take a cable car to a higher point on the wall (weather and wind permitting). Some parts of the wall are very steep as it is in a mountainous area; walking sticks or trekking poles are helpful.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: Board a motorcoach and drive out to the Great Wall at Jin Shan Ling, sometimes referred to as 'the Wild Great Wall' as it is not overly restored. Take a gondola lift to the upper part of the wall then walk along its battlements and through watchtowers to experience magnificent views of the wall as it climbs and descends over the distant mountains. It is probably the most beautiful section of the wall accessible from Beijing. It was built from 1368-89 (Ming Dynasty), and rebuilt 1567-70. There are still poems and tablet writings from that time.

Lunch: At a spot of your choosing, we’ll have box lunches.

Afternoon: We return to our hotel in Beijing.

Dinner: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Evening: At the hotel, join our Group Leader for a chance to learn some handy Chinese expressions.

DAY

6

Temple of Heaven Park, To Luoyang, Traditional Music

Luoyang

B,L,D

New Friendship Hotel

Activity note: Walk approximately 1.6 miles from the entrance to the exit of the Temple of Heaven park on flat, paved terrain. Climbing the Temple requires 27 steps. Bullet train to Luoyang is approximately 4 hrs. Toilets and storage spaces for luggage are available at each end of the bullet train cars. In addition to the dining car, there is trolley service throughout the train with water, soft drinks, beer and snacks for purchase. Hot water for tea and coffee is also available in each car.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We check out and depart via motorcoach to the Temple of Heaven, a 15th century architectural masterpiece, symbolizing the relationship between heaven and earth. With our Group Leader, we walk the extensive grounds to the Temple while observing the activities of local people practicing calligraphy, tai ji, musical instruments, dancing, or flying kites on the park-like grounds.

Lunch: At a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Coach to Beijing West Station to board a bullet train to the small city of Luoyang in Henan Province, located about 500 miles southwest of Beijing. The comfortable four-hour high-speed train takes us through two provinces in north China (Hebei and Henan) and crosses the Yellow River. Luoyang was one of the four great ancient capitals of China and is home to the extraordinary Longmen Buddhist cliff carvings. Check into the hotel late afternoon.

Dinner: At a local restaurant famous for local dishes.

Evening: At the hotel, enjoy a private demonstration of Chinese musical instruments. Tracing back thousands of years based on the discovery of a Neolithic bone flute, music has long been a Chinese tradition. The music has varied greatly through the ages and social classes, developing separately in religious temples, royal operas, and folk songs.

DAY

7

Longmen Cliff Carvings, Agricultural Life

Luoyang

B,L

New Friendship Hotel

Activity note: Walking approximately 1.5 miles at Longmen Grotto. For closer views of the stone carvings, climb about 100 steps with railings; you may choose to remain at the bottom of the stairs and walk along a flat, paved path.

Morning: Head out to People’s Square for an early morning tai ji session before breakfast. People’s Square is filled with local people practicing martial arts, ballroom dancing, or airing pet birds. After breakfast, depart for the 1,500 year old Longmen Grottoes. Here, experienced local staff members will introduce us to these ancient stone carvings that overlook the Yi River and celebrate the introduction of Buddhism to China.

Lunch: In the agricultural village of Huaishuwan, we will divide into smaller groups and visit local families for a home-cooked meal, while accompanied by a local English speaker.

Afternoon: Explore the traditional north Chinese country village of Huai Shu Wan and visit its Primary School. The school has about 200 students from various villages in the area. Get a feel for the village and the local communities by talking with the English teachers and observing classes before returning to the hotel.

Dinner: On your own to explore the local fare in Luoyang.

Evening: Continue to practice conversational Chinese with our Group Leader.

DAY

8

To Xi’an, Hui Muslim Section

Xi'an

B,L,D

Grand Noble Hotel

Activity note: Train ride is approximately 1.5 hours. You are welcome to join the Group Leader for a tai ji session before breakfast. Climb approximately 40 steep, narrow steps with railings to the top of the Drum Tower. Walking up to 0.6 mile, or 1.5 miles total if choosing to walk back to the hotel from the Muslim section. Large luggage will be transferred directly from the train to the hotel; carry-on luggage can be brought and left on the motorcoach until we reach the hotel.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: Join the early morning tai ji session in People’s Square. After breakfast, check out of the hotel and coach to the train station for our morning train to the city of Xi’an, 230 miles to the west. Enjoy views of rural life from the train as you ascend China's Yellow Soil Plateau. The land is covered with a thick layer of wind-blown loess soil, which masks the original landforms. Deeply eroded, the landscape has steep ravines and almost vertical cliff faces poked with holes and caves known as 'yaodong,' which are used for dwelling and resting. Our train will arrive in Xi’an around 12:00 Noon. Disembark the train and head to the Muslim area by motorcoach.

Lunch: At a local restaurant in the Muslim area, offering stir-fried dishes made of beef, lamb, chicken, and various vegetable. No pork or alcoholic beverages are served in Muslim restaurants.

Afternoon: Setting out on foot, we will explore Xi’an’s Hui Muslim area. We’ll meet at Xi’an’s ancient Drum Tower to catch a short traditional drummer performance on the towers top level. Participants who do not wish to climb the tower may explore the square next to the tower, or relax on the benches at the base of the tower. Among the highlights are its beautiful Great Mosque, one of China's best preserved. Xi'an was a hub of the Silk Road in ancient times. Merchants, traders, and students from Islamic lands were drawn there and settled down. Over generations, they became known as the Hui people, officially recognized as one of China’s ethnic minorities. There were thousands of mosques in China at one time, but most are now gone. We’ll transfer to the hotel and check-in in the late afternoon.

Morning: Early morning tai ji session in the hotel courtyard. We will take a motorcoach to Xi'an International Studies University, one of China's key institutions of higher learning, and meet with a faculty expert who will teach us about Daoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism as a way of understanding Chinese character and customs. We’ll then visit the campus with students from the university's renowned English Department and hear about student life in China.

Lunch: In the university dining room, we’ll have a family style meal with typical Chinese dishes including meats such as chicken or pork with vegetables as well as non-meat platters such as tomatoes, potatoes, bakchoi, mushrooms, served with rice.

Afternoon: Our next stop brings us to the state-of-the-art Shaanxi History Museum, where we will gain an understanding of China’s dynastic history as well as its rich and enduring culture in the company of a local staff member. We will then have some time to explore independently. The museum was built in the 1990s in the architectural style of the Tang Dynasty and named after Shaanxi province of which Xi’an is the capital city.

Dinner: At a local restaurant, taste a selection of unique dumplings with amusing shapes and delicious variations in fillings -- a Xi'an specialty.

Activity note: Drive is approximately 1 hour each way. Walking approximately 2 miles at the Terra Cotta Warriors on flat, paved terrain.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: Early morning tai ji session. The huge tomb site of the Qin Emperor, containing an army of life size terra cotta figures, was one of the most astounding archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. With our Group Leader and experienced local staff — all Xi’an college graduates who have much experience with the terra cotta warriors site — we will explore sections of this vast site where three huge pits are filled with the terra-cotta soldiers, cavalry, archers, their weapons, horses and chariots. It has been estimated that there are as many as 8,000 individual figures, but the total number is still unknown. Traces of paint suggest they were once brilliantly colored. Experimental digs in nearby areas have revealed other kinds of figures such as acrobats, dancers, and musicians, but further excavations are “on hold” due to the complex conditions at the site.

Lunch: We will ride to a restaurant near the Terra Cotta Warriors for a buffet lunch with local Chinese food and some Western additions.

Afternoon: Returning to the hotel, join our Group Leader for a discussion of the Chinese government structure.

Dinner: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

11

To Lhasa, Norbulingka Summer Palace

Lhasa

B,D

Tibet Dekang Hotel Lhasa

Activity note: Drive to the airport is approximately 1 hour; flight to Lhasa is 1hr 40 minutes; drive approximately 1 hour to the hotel to check in. Walking up to 1 mile in Norbulingka. Although Tibet uses “Beijing time,” it is actually 2 hours later than Beijing. All of our times have been adjusted to reflect this time change.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: Early morning tai ji session. After breakfast, we will check out of the hotel and transfer to the airport for our flight to Lhasa, the ancient capital of Tibet.

Lunch: In flight.

Afternoon: Arriving in Lhasa, we will ride from the airport to our hotel for check in. After a short opportunity to relax, we will be joined by a professor from Tibet University to talk about Tibetan life, culture, and religion. Then board the motorcoach for a short ride to explore Norbulingka; the summer palace of the Dalai Lama and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it contains his residential quarters and is hub for local entertainment during the summer and autumn months.

Breakfast: At the hotel we will have a buffet offering eggs, yogurt, bread with various spreads, and fruit, plus coffee, tea, fruit juices, water.

Morning: Today we will coach to the heart of Lhasa to explore the Jokhang Temple, built in the 7th century, with experienced local staff members. This is the most revered temple in Tibet and the destination of pilgrims who journey by any means, even on foot, to worship here. Surrounding the temple is the Bokhor Bazaar, offering an exciting array of Tibetan goods both old and new: tools, cloth, thangkas, jewelry, and yak hides.

Afternoon: Walk to the nearby traditional Tibetan Medicine Hospital for an introductory talk from the Vice President of the hospital, who specializes in Tibetan medicine and has also worked in Russia and Spain. He will explain the precepts of Tibetan medicine and treatments. Enjoy the hospital's colorful array of medical thangkas. Continue to the outskirts of Lhasa to experience the magnificent Drepong Monastery, Tibet's largest, with experienced local staff members. For participants wishing for a more relaxing end to the afternoon, the coach may drop you off at the hotel before our visit to Drepong.

Dinner: At the hotel.

Evening: With our Tibetan expert, discuss Tibetan culture and religion at the hotel.

DAY

13

Rural Village and Nunnery, Grasslands Picnic

Lhasa

B,L

Tibet Dekang Hotel Lhasa

Activity note: Drive is approximately 2 hours to the nomadic village.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: Board the motorcoach and head out into the countryside beyond Lhasa to grasslands where pastoral Nomadic families raise yak, sheep, goats, and horses. During grazing season, we visit pastoral families with local experienced staff members.

Lunch: At an outdoor spot enjoy a varied picnic buffet prepared by our hotel and which includes soup, salads, rice, vegetables and other dishes. Dine at a portable table and chairs arranged for our al fresco lunch in the Tibetan countryside.

Afternoon: After lunch, we drive to a nearby herdsmen’s village to learn firsthand about their daily life in rural Tibet. Following our visits, we take a short walk to a modest nunnery where we may encounter its residents chanting or studying scripture. The nuns are welcoming and enjoy sharing the precepts of their life and Tibetan Buddhism.

Dinner: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Activity note: Climb 258 steps to the top of Potala Palace; walking shoes and sticks are strongly recommended.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: Coach to the Potala Palace, seat of the Dalai Lama and one of the most awe-inspiring princely residences and palaces in the world, and explore with a local expert. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Potala Palace has served as the Dalai Lama’s winter residence since the 7th century. Rising from Red Mountain in the central Lhasa Valley, the location symbolizes the integral role of Buddhism in Tibetan society.

Afternoon: Learn about traditional Thangka painting through a talk and demonstration led by a Thangka expert in his studio. Tibetan thangkas are traditional religious paintings often depicting religious scenes, figures, or deities, typically in a three dimensional style.

Dinner: At the hotel.

Evening: At the hotel, we will have a private farewell party featuring Tibetan dance and song.

DAY

15

To Chongqing, Giant Pandas, Yangtze River Sailing

Yangtze River Vessel

B,D

Victoria Cruise Lines

Activity note: Drive approximately 1 hour to the airport; flight to Chongqing is approximately 2 hours, drive 1 hour to Chongqing Zoological Gardens. Walking up to 1.5 miles at the Zoological Gardens. About 35 steps down to the Yangtze River Dock with railings for embarkation. Luggage must be claimed at the Chongqing airport and will be transported directly to the vessel. Carry-on luggage can be left on the coach during the day.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: Check out of the hotel and transfer to the airport for our flight to Chongqing, an independent municipality situated inside Szechuan Province and at the head of the navigable Yangtze.

Lunch: In flight.

Afternoon: Having arrived in Chongqing, we will transfer to the Chongqing Zoological Gardens to observe its giant pandas, indigenous primarily to the Szechuan province. Led by local staff members, we will visit the pandas during their feeding time when they are most active. Watch the pandas eat, sleep, and play.

Dinner: At a local restaurant near the pier, enjoy a traditional Szechuan “hot pot” dinner.

Evening: Transfer to our Yangtze vessel, and as we depart, view the city of Chongqing on the hill.

Morning: Discuss traditional Chinese medicine and consider the Yangtze's influence on China. Where possible, our Group Leader will also continue instruction in tai ji and Chinese conversation as we sail down the river.

Lunch: Aboard the ship, we will have a buffet often including soup, salad, stir-fried dishes, dessert, fruit, and dessert, plus coffee, tea, soft drinks, water.

Afternoon: We will visit a new village for relocated families, exploring their agricultural market and visit a local family with a local staff member. Our host or hostess will introduce us to their village and family, followed by an opportunity to ask some questions translated by our Group Leader. Before dinner, join the captain for a welcome reception aboard the ship.

Dinner: Aboard ship, we will have a choice of a plated meal 3-course meal ordered a la carte from the dinner menu provided during breakfast and lunch, plus soft drinks, water.

Evening: Entertainment aboard the ship including performance of Chinese music and dance.

DAY

17

Yangtze Gorges, Ferry Through Mini Gorges

Yangtze River Vessel

B,L,D

Victoria Cruise Lines

Breakfast: Aboard ship.

Morning: Today, pass through the magnificent Yangtze Gorges and ferry up a mini-gorge on a pristine tributary of the Yangtze. Here we can catch glimpses of red monkeys amongst the trees, goats clinging to the craggy cliffs, and 'hanging coffins' secured in the cliff face by the Ba people centuries ago. As we sail, the ships staff will offer commentary.

Lunch: Aboard ship.

Afternoon: Free Time. Enjoy the views as we sail the Yangtze, attend one of the ship’s presentations, or continue to learn conversational Chinese with our Group Leader.

Dinner: Aboard ship.

Evening: Onboard entertainment.

DAY

18

Three Gorges Dam, Disembark, Bullet train to Shanghai

Shanghai

B,L,D

Four Points by Sheraton Shanghai Daning

Activity note: Visiting the Three Gorges Dam for approximately 2.5 hours. About 40 steps at the dam, about 30 steps disembarking the ship in the afternoon. Drive approximately 1 hour to the railway station. High-speed train to Shanghai approximately 6.5 hours, arriving at about 8:50 pm.

Breakfast: Aboard ship.

Morning: This morning, take a short coach ride to the Three Gorges Dam site. From an observation deck, we’ll have a bird's-eye view of the dam, five-step ship lock, diversion canal, and power station. A nearby exhibition displays a dam model; a briefing from a local staff member will explain this project, one of the largest construction ventures ever. We will return to the ship in time for lunch.

Afternoon: Disembark and transfer to Yichang Railway station for a high speed train to Shanghai. Our bullet train, covering about 700 miles, passes through countryside, suburbs, and three provincial capitals: Wuhan (capital of Hubei Province), Hefei (capital of Anhui Province) and Nanjing (capital of Jiangsu Province). Located in the Yangtze River Delta on China’s east coast, Shanghai is China’s most populous city and the world’s largest port.

Dinner: On board – either in our train’s dining car or served in our first-class carriage.

Evening: Arrive Shanghai and transfer to the hotel for check in.

DAY

19

Shanghai Museum, Riverside Bund, Acrobatics Performance

Shanghai

B,D

Four Points by Sheraton Shanghai Daning

Activity note: Walk up to 10 minutes to the metro station with a staff member or ride the coach with the Group Leader to the Shanghai Museum. Spend about 2 hours at the museum; elevators and escalators available. Acrobatic performance will last for 1hr 40 minutes.

Morning: Early morning tai ji session with the Group Leader. After breakfast we’ll board a motorcoach or travel with a staff member on the Shanghai metro for a field trip to the state-of-the-art Shanghai Museum, completed in 1996 on People’s Square, previously the site of Shanghai’s colonial horse-racing course. Here, we enjoy the opportunity for a self-led exploration using English language audio guides, allowing you to venture among China’s unparalleled collection of paintings, bronzes, ceramics, and sculpture at your own pace and according to your own interests.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. The Museum contains a small café if you would like a convenient option to continue exploring the museum on your own.

Afternoon: Meeting at a predetermined time and place, we will regroup and travel to the riverfront Bund. With our Group Leader, walk along the pedestrian promenade beside the busy Huangpu River. Learn about this renowned riverfront area characterized by iconic Art Deco and Neoclassical buildings from Shanghai's history as a foreign “concession.” Unaffected by the Great Depression, Western capital financed extensive neighborhoods in the Art Deco style for nearly a decade, remaining untouched during the Japanese invasion in 1937 and WWII. Across the river we see “new Shanghai” that was only recently undeveloped farmland and is now a forest of glittering skyscrapers. The motorcoach will then return to the hotel.

Dinner: At a local restaurant near the hotel.

Evening: Travel to the Shanghai Acrobatics theater to attend an evening of amazing skill and prowess in a performance by the world-famous Shanghai Acrobatics Troupe. For thousands of years, acrobatics have been considered as one of the treasures of Chinese performing arts, also figuring in other genres such as Beijing Opera.

Lunch: Near the active Longhua Temple, experience a delicious and imaginative vegetarian meal.

Afternoon: We coach to the Taikang Road area, also known as Tian Zi Fang, to explore the neighborhood on foot with our Group Leader. Once a residential neighborhood in the former French concession, this district is now a lively area with cafes, craft shops, design studios and tea houses and lends itself to walking through its narrow lanes and alleys.

Dinner: At a nearby restaurant we will have our farewell meal.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

21

Program Concludes

Shanghai

B

Activity note: See the “Travel Information” section regarding transfers. If you are an independent traveler (POP status), see “Ground Transportation from Last Location.” The Group Leader will advise as to departure times from the hotel.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please join our Facebook page and share photos of your program. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rsadventures. Best wishes for all your journeys!

Meals

49 Meals

19 Breakfasts

15 Lunches

15 Dinners

The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Lodging

Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.

Display

Apr 19, 2018 - May 09, 2018 (Beijing to Shanghai)

Apr 19, 2018 - May 09, 2018 (Beijing to Shanghai)

May 08, 2018 - May 28, 2018 (Beijing to Shanghai)

May 15, 2018 - Jun 04, 2018 (Beijing to Shanghai)

Aug 26, 2018 - Sep 15, 2018 (Beijing to Shanghai)

Sep 09, 2018 - Sep 29, 2018 (Beijing to Shanghai)

Oct 07, 2018 - Oct 27, 2018 (Beijing to Shanghai)

Oct 14, 2018 - Nov 03, 2018 (Beijing to Shanghai)

Oct 17, 2018 - Nov 06, 2018 (Beijing to Shanghai)

Qianmen Jianguo Hotel

4 nights

Beijing

Originally built in the 1950s, this modernized hotel is located in a traditional district south of Beijing's famous Chan An Avenue and short distance from many of Beijing's historic and monumental sites, including Tian'anmen Square, the Temple of Heaven, and the Forbidden City. It also maintains a well-known theater devoted to nightly performances of Beijing Opera.

Located inside the city walls in the heart of 'downtown' Xi'an, this recently renovated hotel (formerly known as the Royal Garden Hotel) is close to the city's main attractions, including the Bell Tower and Muslim Section.

This five star hotel is in the city center, close to many of Shanghai's highlights and within walking distance of one of Shanghai’s most popular parks where locals gather for traditional exercises and exchange of local news.

Road Scholar does an excellent job putting together a varied program that "scratches many itches": tastes/smells/sights/shopping/exercise/art/religion/history/common folk/etc., and time to rest and explore alone. It is a terrific value and comfortable and delicious. Our guide was a consummate professional and we all knew and relished it.

A fascinating introduction to the real China, with a well thought-out itinerary, high level accommodations and food, and an excellent group leader. We learned a lot and a lot of preconceptions were shattered - in a positive way.

This is my first Road Scholar trip, and it certainly exceeded my expectations. A perfect trip for anyone interested in China's sites, with emphasis on history and culture. Wentao Shi is a superb guide, adding much valued content and cultural insight.

Our recent tour - The Best of China: Imperial Capitals, Tibet and the Yangtze River - was wonderful. We learned so much about China and its people in the best way possible, by experiencing them. I am so impressed with their progress and the prosperity of the country, as well as the friendliness of the people. What a great experience!

Great trip throughout. Better and easier than I anticipated. A different "Wow!" moment almost every day (except the air travel days which should be devoid of drama). Great Group, Leader Hu Lin, if he's available will enhance your experience.

The Best of China: Imperial Capitals, Tibet & the Yangtze River is an amazing program! I learned so much about China and now have a great appreciation for China. Hu Lin was the best group leader! Getting to visit Tibet and see how they live and their beliefs is something I will never forget. Walking on the Great Wall, seeing the Terra Cotta Warriors and so many other highlights that there are too many to list made this another fantastic Road Scholar program that I highly recommend!

Really enjoyed seeing modern China (amazing buildings and bridges) and learning about their 4000 year old culture. It's impressive how advanced they were long before anyone was living in my "neck of the woods." Tibet was disappointing and I hope that Road Scholar will work on improving that portion of the trip.

If you think you know China from the things you have read and heard, think again. This program opens up a whole new world of understanding, from the people and events to the architecture, art and religion.

Just back from a superb trip to China, including Tibet. I was anxious to see this country before it completely changed by the influx of Western ideas. I was able to criss cross the country by bus, train, and plane, with my fellow Road Scholars, to experience China's great history and culture, getting a good look at the recent changes while still viewing its rich past through, lectures, demonstrations, walks, talks, all given by experienced local tour guides at each site. It was an unforgettable experience! I suggest you get in good shape before your go, because the tour is demanding but well worth it!

If you want to find out how life is lived in China, this is the trip for you. Visiting many varied sites and interacting with Chinese citizens will give you a taste of China. It is a beautiful country, filled with lovely people who want to learn about us as we want to learn about them. China is a much more varied country filled with so many different kinds of people than I ever imagined. It is lush and green with a booming economy. Gorgeous museums and historic sights. And we all know that the food is delicious.

The Best of China / Tibet trip was terrific because of the mix of cultural, historical, home visits facilitated by our dedicated guide Mr Liu, The food and accommodations were great. Being in the hands of an expert really made the trip for me.

The trip of a lifetime. Best guide ever. Couldn't believe we were able to climb up to the great wall and reached the top of the Patola Palace. Unforgettable experience with fabulous and fun people.
Jack and Helen Tucker

The Best of China tour was amazing! Planes, trains, buses and airplanes! Wonderful speakers and field trips. Our national guide, Mr. Liu made the trip very special. I think this is a great value. Most meals and all transportation and activities included. Well organized. I really learned a great deal about China and enjoyed our interactions with the local people.
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This was an eye-opening experience, If you've never been to China or have not been there for 20 years, go!
Plan to dress casual. Tibet can be "taxing" because of the altitude. WiFi in the hotels. Bottled water was always available and the programed planned food (meals) was never a problem. Felt very safe but conspicuous as a foreigner but never uncomfortable. Lots and lots of Chinese tourist. Extremely well run.

I would go back in a minute, the trip changed many misgivings I had about China. It is really interesting place to go and the people are very friendly. There are so many things we need to learn about other cultures and this is a good start, go to China.

This trip was amazing! Virtually all costs were handled in advance, leaving very few negative surprises. The guides were interesting and interested in making our trip special. Accommodations were first class all the way. I would recommend this trip to anyone capable of walking as the course description mentions. We had a great time and will definitely plan to use Road Scholar again.

It was a great trip, fun, educational and gave me a
new outlook on China. I met interesting, intelligent, and kind people. It was very well organized, the group leader was fantastic, and the lodgings and food were above my expectations.

This was our first Road Scholar trip and it was superb. I cannot recommend it highly enough! The attention to detail and the excellent organization of the trip allowed me to have a completely stress-free time. Each aspect of the trip is organized for maximum cultural immersion and education such as lectures by college professors and a Tibetan doctor, visiting with local families, and visiting large and small local museums. The food was plentiful and wonderful, and the accommodations were excellent. Seeing the Great Wall and the Terra Cotta Army fulfilled a life long dream for me. The 21 days on this trip flew by and I am looking forward to our next (already booked) Road Scholar trip.

This was an excellent trip! The itinerary was an excellent mix of amazing sites, visits with students and families, and relevant lectures. Tibet was fantastic to see, although altitude effects were non-negligible. The trip guide, Mr. Liu, was knowledgeable, personable, and made logistics effortless for the participants. He was able to connect well and personalize China for the group. Group members were great. Highly recommended.

This program is exceptionally good in covering so many highlights of China in so short a time. Our program leader, Mr. Liu, deserves highest accolades for his skill and knowledge in ably leading our group. Be aware, however, that air pollution levels in China are often seriously high, and persons with chronic respiratory conditions might be advised to take this factor into consideration, especially given that some aspects of the program can be fairly challenging physically (e.g., portions of the Great Wall, high altitude in Tibet).

If you are interested in China this is the trip for you. It was my 5th Road Scholar adventure and although all were great, this one ranked at the top. It was very comprehensive, visiting six cities via four flights, a high speed rail trip and river cruise..,all went off without a hitch. Our leader, Mr. Liu, was outstanding as he not only took care of our logistics but added immeasurable insights into daily life from his personal experiences and really helped us understand the rapid changes taking place in this developing country...and the contrasts from ultra modern big cities to the farming communities. The Tibet section was fascinating and different, although be aware of the elevation factor for the first day or two. Also, our group was a nice mix of couples and singles (7 and 7) and was most welcoming. The cost was very reasonable as well, with a minimal single supplement. All in all, an outstanding program and trip of a lifetime for me.

I am still reeling from the plethora of incredible venues that we participated in during our tour of China! The panoramic vistas at the top of the Great Wall, the walls of the gorges, the Potala Palace literally took one's breath away. The cultural celebrations with dancers, musicians, artists and locals was inviting and led to a lot of learning. Finally, the history of China is coming together for this traveller. Our leader, Mr. Liu, was an outstanding force in ensuring that the program was a success for all.

We saw and heard so much in China that it will take me months to process it all. It was a true learning experience, enriched by the university professors, students, musicians and farmers that we met during our stay. Mr Liu, our estimable group leader, smoothed over any incipient concerns every day in every way. Our group was a welcoming and engaging bunch of Americans and Canadians who performed a rousing and memorable version of Proud Mary during cabaret night on the Victoria Selina Yangtze River boat cruise.
Sherry, Ottawa